Engineering and Mechanics

Program Overview

Mechanics is the study of forces that act on bodies and the resultant motion that those bodies experience. With roots in physics and mathematics, Engineering Mechanics is the basis of all the mechanical sciences: civil engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering and aeronautical and aerospace engineering. Engineering Mechanics provides the “building blocks” of statics, dynamics, strength of materials, and fluid dynamics. Engineering mechanics is the discipline devoted to the solution of mechanics problems through the integrated application of mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles. Special emphasis is placed on the physical principles underlying modern engineering design.

Engineering Mechanics students are also encouraged to engage in undergraduate research with a faculty member. As a result, Engineering Mechanics students are prepared for careers at the forefront of a wide variety of fields, including the aerospace, electronics, automotive, manufacturing, software, and computer industries. The curriculum also provides excellent preparation for graduate school in many different engineering disciplines.

Mission

The mission of the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering is to prepare our graduates:

1. To become science-based engineers and professionals, having a thorough knowledge of mathematics and physical science, a broad grasp of mechanical engineering principles and methods, and an ability to apply those fundamentals in practical situations with integrity;

2. To develop as persons and professionals, continually expanding their knowledge and abilities, communicating effectively with others, maintaining the highest ethical standards, exercising leadership, contributing as team members, and functioning capably within the global workforce; and

3. To sustain and advance human society by contributing to technological innovation, creating new knowledge and new engineering techniques, as well as through service to professional societies and community services.

Objectives

The educational objectives for the Engineering Mechanics program reflect the mission of the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering and the importance placed on successful professional practice, the ability to pursue advanced degrees, the assumption of professional and societal leadership roles, and a commitment to life-long learning. University of Illinois Engineering Mechanics graduates will:

Objective 1:
Successfully enter a profession that involves Engineering Mechanics skills or pursue graduate/professional education.

Objective 2:
Advance in their chosen fields to technical leadership and/or management positions.

Objective 3:
Engage in continued learning through professional development.

Objective 4:
Participate in and contribute to professional societies and community services.

Student Outcomes

a. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering

b. An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data

c. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability

d. An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams

e. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems

f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility

g. An ability to communicate effectively

h. The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context

i. A recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, life-long learning

j. A knowledge of contemporary issues

k. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice

For full information on the enrollment by year, students graduated, and many other details of the MechSE department, see . To navigate to the program data select "Engineering" under "Select a Major Unit" and Mechanical Science & Engr for "Department." Specific data for students may be found by selecting "Student Data" under "Jump to Data." Enrollment in the program by academic year may be found under item 3660 and students graduated are listed under item 4420 on this web page.